Devonport, North Shore City

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A top Auckland attraction and a really great place to live.

One of the earliest European settlements in New Zealand history, many of the houses are fine examples of early colonial New Zealand architecture, mostly of timber construction from around the end of the 1800s.

Jump on one of the Auckland, New Zealand ferries from the ferry building on Quay Street and take the 10 minute trip across the Waitemata Harbour to the North shore, (leaves every 30 minutes and every 15 minutes in the rush hour).

You can pick up an Auckland city guide here which will give you more information.

You could also drive there over the Harbour Bridge but I don't find this as interesting as the ferry and at rush hour it could take an eternity.

Living in Eastern Auckland we often choose to use the ferry from Half Moon Bay into the city centre instead of driving and trying to find a park place. Much more enjoyable.

Incidently, if you are planning to do the harbour sight seeing cruise I would recommend taking the Devonport ferry instead, it is the cheapest way to see Auckland Harbour and the city skyline.

Be sure to visit Whites Dairy on Vauxhall Rd for New Zealand's largest ice creams.

Wander around the arts and crafts shops, view the flowers, stroll along the beaches and take in the views from the volcanoes, Mount Victoria and North Head.

From the ferry landing at Torpedo Wharf it is a short walk along Victoria Street to the top of Mt Victoria (It's quite steep but should only take around 15 mins).

The views of the City of Sails are magnificent, especially in the evening so be sure to take your camera. There is a light house and WWII watch towers at the top of mount Victoria for you to explore.

Take a walk from the ferry to North Head (25 minutes) where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf islands, Auckland city and the distinctive island of Rangitoto, the youngest and largest of the volcanoes which erupted into existance only around 500 - 600 years ago.

The national base of the Royal New Zealand Navy is also here.

The Navy have a museum which is open daily. I'm told it is interesting and worth a visit but I haven't got around to it yet.

When I do I will be sure to add a page about it.

Also while in Devonport take some time to see Cheltenham Beach, a safe, white sand beach good for family swimming. My personal favourite. Take a picnic and a blanket and enjoy the scenery.